A Clean Future for the Maldives

The Greater Malé Waste-to-Energy Project

By Asian Development Bank

August 12^th, 2020

The Challenge

Behind the scenic photos of its beaches and colorful marine life, the island nation of Maldives is fighting a battle against waste and pollution that are threatening the health of its population and national economy.

An Environmental Problem

Dealing with more than 800 tons of solid waste per day is no easy task. And with no sustainable system to manage this waste, the Greater Malé area, and the nearby outer islands are suffering severe pollution and environmental degradation.

Trash Island

Waste spillage in the surrounding ocean, and open dumping and burning of garbage at the dumpsite in Thilafushi island, have created an ominous cloud that is casting a shadow on the nation’s future health and environment.

An Ominous Cloud

Visible as a thin line of smoke from Malé, the international airport in Hulhumale, and nearby resort islands, the plumes emanating from the dumpsite in Thilafushi island pose as a health hazard and nuisance to residents and tourists.

The Solution

In 2018, the Government of Maldives together with the Asian Development Bank initiated the Greater Malé Environmental Improvement and Waste Management Project. It is ADB's first large-scale assistance in sustainable waste management in Maldives.

A Modern Waste Management System

The next phase of the project - Greater Malé Waste-to-Energy Project, will establish a modern solid waste management facility for the Greater Malé region and neighboring islands. The project will also support the building of an advanced waste-to-energy plant on the island.

Strengthening Capacity

To effectively operate and maintain the new modern facilities that will be developed, the project will also strengthen the capacity of the Maldives Ministry of Environment and the Environment Protection Agency.